What Causes An Autoimmune Rash? 10 Possible Conditions + Pictures

What autoimmune conditions cause a rash on the skin? These are the most common autoimmune diseases that may cause rashes on your skin:

• Lupus
• Sjogren’s syndrome
• Dermatomyositis
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Hypothyroidism & myxedema
• Celiac disease
• Scleroderma
• Lichen planus
• Behçet’s disease

An autoimmune disease occurs when your body’s immune system attacks healthy cells within the body. This dysfunctional immune response may lead to various symptoms, like hair loss, skin rash, or even joint pain.

About 50 million Americans suffer from autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Between 5-8% of Americans are likely to experience an autoimmune skin disorder at some point. Women are especially at risk thanks to differences in genetic makeup.  

Why do autoimmune conditions cause a rash? Autoimmune conditions may cause a rash because they trigger inflammation in skin cells. These diseases are often characterized by chronic inflammation in your internal organs, your skin, and everywhere in between.

How long does an autoimmune rash last? Autoimmune rashes last varying lengths of time based on the type of rash and the autoimmune disease that caused it. Some rashes can go away after a few days, while others may last up to years.

What do autoimmune rashes look like? Autoimmune rashes can look like scaly red patches, purplish bumps, or more. The appearance of autoimmune rashes will be different, depending on which autoimmune condition is triggering the skin rash. 

For example, cutaneous lupus may cause a scaly red patch that does not hurt or itch. Scalp psoriasis may cause plaque buildup that results in hair loss. Lichen planus may cause purplish, itchy, flat bumps on your skin.

Learn more about the autoimmune conditions that may cause skin rashes. Here are 10 of the conditions that commonly cause autoimmune rashes.

Lupus

Among other symptoms, two-thirds of lupus patients will develop a skin condition. Skin disease in lupus may present as rashes, sores, lesions, or cherry angiomas — a bright red, raised patch of skin.Up to 70% of lupus cases are worsened by sun exposure or extended time under fluorescent lights. Many lupus-related rashes will appear in sun-exposed areas of the skin, often a butterfly-shaped rash across the nose and cheeks.

autoimmune rash caused by lupus

Cutaneous lupus refers to a form of lupus that only affects the skin. (When people say “lupus,” they’re usually talking about systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is different from cutaneous lupus.) You can have multiple forms of lupus or only one form.

The 3 types of cutaneous lupus:

1. Acute cutaneous lupus often causes a butterfly rash (AKA malar rash) on your cheeks. This should not lead to scarring. However, this area will be sensitive to sunlight, and it may look like a sunburn.
2. Subacute cutaneous lupus also occurs mostly on sun-exposed areas of your skin. The affected areas should not scar or itch. However, the affected areas may become discolored and scaly.
3. Chronic cutaneous lupus is sometimes known as discoid lupus, even though “discoid” is the most common form of chronic cutaneous lupus among many. Discoid lupus is very sensitive to sunlight and even fluorescent light, producing small amounts of ultraviolet radiation. Discoid lupus may eventually lead to discoloration and scarring, though typically discoid lesions still do not itch or hurt. Discoid lesions on the head can cause hair to fall out permanently.

Neonatal lupus is a very rare condition that affects infants of mothers who have some form of lupus. At birth, the infant may exhibit a skin rash, low blood cell count, liver problems, or a slow heartbeat.

Sjögren’s Syndrome

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that can cause dry eyes and dry mouth. Mainly affecting women over 40, Sjögren’s syndrome affects up to 3 million Americans.

Individuals with Sjögren’s may develop a skin rash.

Sjögren’s syndrome may lead to the following skin problems:

• Dry, rough skin (AKA xerosis)
• Blood spots on your legs (AKA purpura) due to blood vessel inflammation (AKA vasculitis)
• Purple-to-red skin rash that does not lighten under pressure

Red, ring-shaped skin lesions around a pale center (AKA annular erythema)

skin rash caused by Sjögren’s syndrome

If you experience purpura or annular erythema, schedule a visit with your doctor or dermatologist right away.

Although Sjögren’s syndrome does not seem to reduce life expectancy, it can reduce your quality of life. For instance, if Sjögren’s causes dry mouth, you may develop gum disease and cavities, which may drastically reduce your quality of life.

Dermatomyositis

Dermatomyositis is a very rare autoimmune disorder that affects a few thousand Americans, including juveniles. Common symptoms include:

• Muscle weakness
• Trouble swallowing (AKA dysphagia)
• Difficulty talking
• Fatigue
• Red or purple skin rash on a sun-exposed area
• Calcium deposits underneath your skin (AKA calcinosis)
• Inflammation around your fingernails

Dermatomyositis-related skin rashes most often occur in these 8 parts of the body:

1. Eyelids
2. Nose
3. Cheeks
4. Back
5. Upper chest
6. Elbows
7. Knees
8. Knuckles

Individuals who experience skin rash but not muscle weakness likely suffer from amyopathic dermatomyositis, also called “dermatomyositis sine myositis”.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is the most common autoimmune skin rash. The most common symptom of psoriasis is a scaly skin rash. These skin problems may occur anywhere on the body, but psoriasis most commonly affects the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp.

Psoriasis may be itchy and cause pain. Make sure you do not scratch or itch the psoriasis rash, which can lead to bleeding and infection.

plaque psoriasis rash

There are 7 types of psoriasis:

1. Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis skin rash. Small red bumps form, then get scaly and larger. Up to 90% of psoriasis patients experience this type of rash. 15% of people with plaque psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis.
2. Nail psoriasis leads to pits in fingernails and toenails and may result in loss of nails.
3. Scalp psoriasis forms flakes that look like dandruff and possibly hair loss.
4. Inverse psoriasis (AKA intertriginous psoriasis) occurs in the skin folds of individuals with psoriasis. Overweight individuals are particularly vulnerable to this form of psoriasis.
5. Pustular psoriasis causes pus-filled bumps, usually on the feet and hands. These bumps may dry and get brown and scaly.
6. Guttate psoriasis forms little red spots all over your skin after an infection.
7. Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare, life-threatening type of psoriasis. It includes a large patch of red skin, itching, and severe pain. It may be caused by intense sunburn, certain medications, or untreated psoriasis.

guttate psoriasis rash

What autoimmune disease causes an itchy rash? Some autoimmune diseases that may cause an itchy rash are cutaneous lupus, oral lichen planus, and erythrodermic psoriasis.

Eczema

Eczema is an itchy skin condition. Children are at a higher risk of getting eczema than adults. Though eczema often goes away after puberty, it can persist into adulthood.

The 2 basic types of eczema are:

1. Atopic dermatitis: This is the most common form of eczema. Whether autoimmune or genetic, atopic dermatitis triggers a skin rash when the skin’s natural defenses are weakened. Many people experience atopic dermatitis, asthma, and hay fever together.
2. Contact dermatitis: This is an allergic reaction (or exposure to a chemical irritant), leading to an itchy skin rash. Contact dermatitis may also result in fluid-filled blisters or scaly patches.

eczema rash

Eczema can cause skin problems all over your body, especially on:

• Hands
• Feet
• Arms
• Legs
• Elbow
• Knees
• Scalp
• The back of the neck

Hypothyroidism & Myxedema

Severe, untreated hypothyroidism may lead to myxedema, which either means “severely advanced hypothyroidism” or skin problems related to severely advanced hypothyroidism.

Myxedema leads to skin changes, though these may not technically be considered rashes. Myxedema may result in swelling and thickening of your skin.

rash caused by hypothyroidism-induced myxedema

Skin changes related to myxedema are most common:

• On your lower legs
• On the face
• On your tongue

However, these changes can occur anywhere on your body.

Severe hypothyroidism may also trigger these 9 symptoms:

1. Goiter
2. Fatigue
3. Brittle hair
4. Cold sensitivity
5. Weight gain
6. Low heart rate
7. Low blood pressure
8. Constipation
9. Depression

Myxedema and severe hypothyroidism require immediate treatment and management. “Myxedema crisis” is when the body no longer tolerates the severe hypothyroidism symptoms. Your body starts to shut down. Myxedema crisis may result in coma, seizures, and death.

Call your doctor or emergency services immediately if you believe you’re having a myxedema crisis.

If you think you may have hypothyroidism, schedule a consult at PrimeHealth in Denver, Colorado. 90% of hypothyroidism cases are autoimmunity-related. Click here to learn how we treat hypothyroidism differently than other doctors.

Celiac Disease

Experts estimate that almost 1% of Americans suffer from celiac disease. Although celiac disease most frequently triggers gastrointestinal distress, it may also trigger an autoimmune rash.

Celiac disease occurs when gluten causes excessive gut inflammation, which may cause the following symptoms:

• Anemia
• Fatigue
• Gas
• Stomach growling
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Depression
• Skin rash

Celiac disease may result in “dermatitis herpetiformis”, an itchy, blistering rash on your skin. This usually appears on the elbows, knees, or buttocks.

dermatitis herpetiformis rash caused by Celiac disease

Surprisingly, fewer than 10% of individuals with celiac experience both skin problems and the more common digestive symptoms.

Scleroderma

Also known as systemic sclerosis, scleroderma is a condition in which your immune system mistakenly attacks your own healthy tissues, namely, the skin.

Scleroderma also affects the following:

• Blood vessels
• Digestive system
• Heart
• Joints
• Kidneys
• Lungs
• Muscles

scleroderma rash

When you have scleroderma, your skin changes in appearance and feel, due to increased collagen production. It may become shiny and thicker.

Morphea is sometimes synonymous with scleroderma, but morphea is actually a severe type of scleroderma. Morphea specifically refers to oval-shaped areas of thick, red skin.

Risk factors for scleroderma include:

1. Female gender
2. African-American or Native American heritage
3. Exposure to silica dust
4. Certain chemotherapy drugs

Lichen Planus

Oral lichen planus is an autoimmune disease that may trigger swelling and irritation on your skin, scalp, nails, genitals, and mucous membranes.

Lichen planus typically causes purple, itchy, flat bumps on the skin. It may also result in lacy-white lesions in the mouth.

lichen planus rash on the wrist
Source: study and DermNetNZ

Behçet’s disease

Behçet’s disease is a very rare autoimmune disorder that leads to blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis).

Behçet’s disease symptoms include:

• Skin rashes/lesions
• Mouth sores
• Eye inflammation
• Genital sores

rash caused by Behçet’s disease

Autoimmune Blistering Diseases

We’ve been talking a lot about skin rashes. However, some autoimmune conditions can cause skin blistering, too. 

Also known as autoimmune bullous diseases, here are the most common autoimmune diseases that can cause blistering:

• Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita
• IgA-mediated bullous dermatoses
• Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid
• Bullous pemphigoid
• Pemphigus

Scalp Itch

Several autoimmune diseases may also cause an itchy scalp. Scalp itch may or may not be caused by sores or lesions on the head. Conditions include:

• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Lichen planus
• Lupus
• Scleroderma
• Sjögren’s syndrome

Autoimmune Hives

Autoimmune hives are itchy red bumps or welts often caused by allergic reactions. An overactive immune system can also cause them. Autoimmune diseases that may cause hives are:

• Lupus
• Sjögren’s
• Celiac disease
• Type 1 diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Vitiligo

When should I be worried about a rash?

It’s always advisable to keep an eye on a new rash. Here are some signs that you should see a healthcare professional:

• Sudden onset
• Fever
• Pain
• Bisters
• Swelling
• Discharge
• Bruising
• A bad smell
• The rash area is spreading

Testing for Autoimmune Disease

No single test is designed to test for all autoimmune diseases. If you’re seeking a diagnosis, several blood tests can help your healthcare provider determine if you have an autoimmune disease.

Here are 4 common diagnostic tests for autoimmune disease:

1. Antinuclear Antibody (ANA)
2. Autoantibodies
3. C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
4. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

Will I need a skin biopsy? Your doctor may recommend a biopsy to learn more about a new rash. This is to rule out bacterial or fungal infections, cancer, or other skin conditions.

Treatment Options

How do you treat an autoimmune rash? The best way to treat autoimmune rash (and autoimmune disorders in general) is to identify and treat the underlying cause. There are many possible causes of autoimmunity. For immediate relief, over-the-counter corticosteroid creams may help with discomfort.

Because there are multiple potential causes, conventional doctors often say autoimmune disorders are incurable. Then, they focus on treating the symptoms with prednisone or other anti-inflammatory drugs and medications that often trigger adverse side effects and may lead to flare-ups. Integrative medicine and functional medicine doctors are more equipped to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of autoimmune disease. This can be achieved through a combination of medication, dietary coaching, and lifestyle changes.

Click here today to schedule a free phone consultation with us. We have successfully treated many patients with autoimmune rashes. Here at PrimeHealth, we empower patients to take an active role in their whole-person health.

Sources

1. Angum, F., Khan, T., Kaler, J., Siddiqui, L., & Hussain, A. (2020). The Prevalence of Autoimmune Disorders in Women: A Narrative Review. Cureus, 12(5), e8094.
2. Grönhagen, C. M., & Nyberg, F. (2014). Cutaneous lupus erythematosus: An update. Indian dermatology online journal, 5(1), 7. 
3. Talha, B., & Swarnkar, S. A. (2019). Xerostomia. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.
4. Nair, P.A., Badri, T. (2020). Psoriasis. 
5. Badri, T., Kumar, P., & Oakley, A. M. (2017). Plaque Psoriasis.
6. Belgrave, D. C., Simpson, A., Buchan, I. E., & Custovic, A. (2015). Atopic dermatitis and respiratory allergy: what is the link. Current dermatology reports, 4(4), 221-227. 
7. Reunala, T. (1998). Dermatitis herpetiformis: coeliac disease of the skin. 
8. Castro, C., & Gourley, M. (2010). Diagnostic testing and interpretation of tests for autoimmunity.Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 125(2), S238-S247.

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Exploring the causes of an autoimmune rash

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Have you ever experienced an unexplained rash that appears out of nowhere? Itchy, red, and bothersome, autoimmune rashes can be quite perplexing. These rashes occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, causing inflammation and skin irritation.

Learn more about the causes of autoimmune rashes and the various treatment options that are available. Whether you’ve been personally affected by an autoimmune rash or know someone who has, we provide insights to help you find relief and regain your skin health.

What causes autoimmune rashes?

Autoimmune rashes occur when the immune system goes haywire and starts attacking its own healthy cells, resulting in inflammation and skin irritation.

While the exact triggers of autoimmune rashes are not fully understood, there are some common causes.

• Genetic predisposition. Certain autoimmune conditions like lupus, psoriasis, and dermatomyositis have a known genetic component. Inherited factors may increase the likelihood of developing autoimmune rashes.
• Dysregulated immune response. An overactive or malfunctioning immune system plays a significant role in autoimmune diseases. The immune system mistakenly identifies normal cells as foreign invaders, triggering an inflammatory response.
• Environmental triggers. Environmental factors like exposure to certain chemicals, medications, infections, or even sunlight can trigger or exacerbate autoimmune rashes in susceptible individuals.
• Hormonal changes. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women, may influence the occurrence or severity of autoimmune rashes. For example, hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause may contribute to skin flare-ups in individuals with autoimmune conditions.
• Stress and emotional factors. While not a direct cause, stress, and emotional factors can influence the immune system and potentially trigger or worsen autoimmune rashes. Emotional stressors, anxiety, and chronic stress may impact immune function.

Each person’s experience with autoimmune rashes is unique. If you’re dealing with these bothersome rashes, consult with a healthcare professional at your local CityMD urgent care for advice.

Together, you can uncover your triggers and develop a personalized approach to treat those rashes.

What does an autoimmune rash look like?

Wondering how to spot an autoimmune rash? Let’s take a closer look at what you might expect.

• Redness and inflammation. Autoimmune rashes often come with noticeable inflammation, making the affected areas appear flushed.
• Itchy or irritated skin. Autoimmune rashes can bring along an irresistible urge to scratch.
• Rash patterns. These rashes can appear as raised bumps, scaly patches, or blisters.
• Sensitivity to touch. Touching the affected area may elicit tenderness or discomfort.
• Spreading or changing shape. Autoimmune rashes seem to have a mind of their own. They may spread over time or change shape.

What diseases cause an autoimmune rash?

Several autoimmune diseases may cause autoimmune rashes. Here are some examples.

• Lupus. This chronic autoimmune disease can cause a butterfly-shaped facial rash called a malar rash. Rashes can also appear elsewhere on the body, often triggered by sunlight.
• Psoriasis. Characterized by red, scaly patches, psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition affecting the skin.
• Dermatomyositis. This autoimmune disease affects the muscles and skin, leading to a rash on the face, neck, shoulders, and upper chest.
• Sjögren’s syndrome. Dryness of the eyes and mouth is a hallmark of this autoimmune disorder, with some individuals developing associated skin rashes.
• Bullous pemphigoid. This autoimmune blistering disorder causes large, itchy blisters on the skin, often affecting older adults.
• Vasculitis. Different types of vasculitis can lead to various skin manifestations like rashes, ulcers, or purple spots.

Notice any concerning symptoms or suspect an autoimmune disease? Seek medical advice for proper evaluation and treatment.

Treatment for autoimmune rashes at CityMD

At CityMD, we understand the discomfort and frustration that autoimmune rashes can bring. Our experienced health care professionals are here to help you find relief and restore your skin’s health.

When treating autoimmune rashes, we offer a range of comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific needs, like topical medications, oral medications, and referrals to specialists. If you’re experiencing an autoimmune rash or have concerns about your skin, visit your nearest CityMD location or schedule a virtual care appointment online.

While most definitive diagnoses for autoimmune rashes will be confirmed by a specialist, such as dermatologist or immunologist, at CityMD we can help by prescribing medications for symptom relief and referring you to the appropriate specialist.

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Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.

Find your nearest CityMD

Treatment of systemic autoimmune skin diseases in Lipetsk

All diseases that appear as a result of the increasing aggressive effect of the cells of the immune system on healthy cells of the human body are called autoimmune diseases. Most often, these diseases are systemic, due to the fact that in the course of them not only a separate organ is affected, but also entire systems of the body, and sometimes the whole organism as a whole. Autoimmune skin diseases are an example of one of the many diseases that are caused by the immune response. In particular, cells of the entire skin of a person are attacked by specific immune bodies due to a failure of general immunity.

Depending on the type of skin disease, there are certain differences in the clinical picture of the course of the disease, which manifests itself in different symptoms and the depth of damage to the cells of the epidermal tissue.

Symptoms of autoimmune skin diseases:

Pemphigus: rash in the form of blisters on various parts of the skin; blisters differ in size, often appear on the mucous membranes and folds of the skin.
Lupus erythematosus: spots of intense red color, often infiltrating and turning into plaques; foci of inflammation are quite painful, when it develops into chronic inflammation, the skin turns pale and thinner.

Scleroderma: bluish or yellowish-brown spots of various sizes; the coverage area is constantly growing, at the peak of the development of the acute phase of the inflammatory process, a plaque forms in the middle of the spot, a scar may appear.

The most common disorders caused by a malfunction of the immune system occur in those patients who have a history of hereditary predisposition. This is associated with gene mutations:

Mutations of the first type: lymphocytes cannot distinguish between cells of a certain type, which leads to the risk of developing the pathology of the organ that was affected by this disease in close relatives. These mutations can cause diabetes, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis.

Mutations of the second type: lymphocytes, being a kind of defenders of the body, begin to multiply uncontrollably, actively attack the cells of various organs, which causes systemic pathologies, in which the process of damage not only to organs, but also to glands, arteries, tissues can take place simultaneously.
Causes of autoimmune skin diseases

Deterioration of the general state of the human immune system is a leading factor in the development of psoriasis. Skin cells begin to be perceived by the immune system as foreign, this provokes their rejection. Often this process is a consequence of burns, abrasions and other damage to the skin.

The prefix “auto” indicates that these diseases occur when a person’s immunity “takes up arms” against his own body or certain types of cells. The immune system is our guardian and protector, which sensitively controls the appearance of foreign substances, microorganisms and tissues that are not characteristic of us from birth. The arrival of such “uninvited” guests causes a violent response of the body – immune cells attack the enemy and seek to destroy it. This is what an autoimmune disease is.

Today, the international medical community is arguing about the origin and treatment of autoimmune diseases. But so far there is no consensus and a categorical answer. The onset of the disease is most often associated with severe stress, severe injury or chronic illness.

Autoimmune skin diseases: causes, symptoms and treatment

Autoimmune skin diseases are a group of diseases in which the body’s immune system attacks its own skin cells. The article discusses the main types of autoimmune skin diseases, their symptoms, causes and methods of treatment. Find out what steps you can take to improve your quality of life with autoimmune skin disease.

Autoimmune skin diseases are a group of diseases in which the body’s immune system begins to attack its own skin cells and tissues. The reasons for the development of such diseases are not fully understood, but it is believed that genetic predisposition, environmental exposure and impaired immune system play a key role.

Symptoms of autoimmune skin diseases can be varied and depend on the specific disease. However, the most common symptoms are skin rashes, itching, redness, peeling, and inflammation. Some patients may also experience general symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite.

Treatment of autoimmune skin diseases is aimed at suppressing the activity of the immune system and reducing inflammation. The main drugs used are glucocorticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and anti-inflammatory drugs. In addition, it is important to follow the rules of skin hygiene, use emollients and moisturizers, and avoid factors that can exacerbate the disease.

Although autoimmune skin diseases are incurable, modern medicine offers effective methods to control and manage the symptoms of these diseases. It is important to consult a dermatologist for professional help and optimal treatment.

In conclusion, autoimmune skin diseases are a serious problem that requires complex and long-term treatment. Proper diagnosis and timely treatment can significantly improve the quality of life of patients and prevent the development of complications.

Autoimmune skin diseases

Autoimmune skin diseases are a group of diseases in which the body’s immune system begins to attack its own skin cells and tissues. This is due to an error in the immune system, which incorrectly recognizes its own cells as hostile.

One of the most common autoimmune skin diseases is psoriasis. In this condition, skin cells begin to multiply rapidly, resulting in red, scaly patches on the skin. Psoriasis can be accompanied by itching and redness of the skin, as well as changes in the nails.

Another common autoimmune skin disease is eczema. This is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that manifests itself in the form of dryness, itching, redness and blistering. Eczema can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, allergic reactions, and stress.

Treatment of autoimmune skin diseases includes anti-inflammatory drugs, creams and ointments, as well as physiotherapy and lifestyle changes. In some cases, systemic treatment may be required, including oral medications or injections.

It is important to remember that each case of an autoimmune skin disease is individual, and the treatment should be prescribed by a dermatologist, taking into account the characteristics of the patient’s body. Seeking medical attention early and following the doctor’s recommendations can help control symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Causes of autoimmune skin diseases

Autoimmune skin diseases result from a dysfunction of the immune system when it attacks the body’s own cells and tissues. The reasons for the development of such diseases can be various and multifaceted.

One of the possible causes of autoimmune skin diseases is a genetic predisposition. Some people inherit genes that make them more susceptible to these diseases. Having certain genetic mutations can increase your risk of developing autoimmune skin diseases.

The occurrence of autoimmune skin diseases can also be associated with exposure to external factors. Some viruses, bacteria, and other infections can trigger immune responses that lead to autoimmune skin diseases. For example, patients with herpes infections often present with symptoms of autoimmune skin diseases.

Some autoimmune skin diseases can also be caused by environmental exposure. Harmful chemicals, ultraviolet radiation, stress, and other factors can stimulate the immune system and trigger autoimmune reactions in the body.

Symptoms of autoimmune skin diseases

Skin rashes: the main symptom of autoimmune skin diseases. Rashes can be of various shapes (spots, vesicles, rash), colors (red, pink, white) and size. They may be limited to a specific area of ​​the skin or spread throughout the body.

Itching: Most patients with autoimmune skin diseases experience itching. It can be mild or intense, temporary or permanent. Itching may be worse at night or on contact with irritants.

Burning sensation or pain: In autoimmune skin diseases, there may be a burning sensation or pain in the affected area. These sensations may be localized or spread throughout the affected area.

Discoloration of the skin: in autoimmune skin diseases, the skin may change its color. It can become darker or lighter, and also acquire a reddish, purple or white hue.

Fissures and ulcers: Fissures and ulcers may form on the skin. They can be painful and cause discomfort. Cracks and ulcers can be superficial or deep, small or large.

Skin flaking: Autoimmune skin diseases can cause skin flaking. Peeling can be small or large, localized or spread throughout the body.

Treatment of autoimmune skin diseases

Treatment of autoimmune skin diseases is aimed at reducing inflammation, controlling symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Depending on the specific disease, different methods of treatment can be used.

In most cases, anti-inflammatory drugs such as non-static creams and ointments are used to help reduce inflammation and itching. Corticosteroids may be prescribed for more severe cases to reduce inflammation and reduce symptoms.

Immunomodulators can be used to regulate the immune system and reduce the activity of the autoimmune process. These drugs may include azathioprine, methotrexate, and cyclosporine.

Additional treatments may include phototherapy, in which the skin is irradiated with ultraviolet light to reduce inflammation. Sometimes it may be recommended to use dermatological preparations containing vitamin D, as well as preparations that improve blood circulation and metabolic processes in the skin.

It is important to remember that the treatment of autoimmune skin diseases must be individualized and prescribed by a physician based on the specific symptoms and characteristics of the disease. Regular monitoring and adherence to the doctor’s recommendations will help control the disease and reduce the risk of exacerbations.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease characterized by the appearance of lamellar rashes on various parts of the body. It affects skin cells, causing them to multiply rapidly and form thick, dry, and scaly plates.

Symptoms of psoriasis can vary depending on the type and extent of the disease, but usually include red patches covered with silvery scales, itching, redness and inflammation of the skin. Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, including the scalp, elbows, knees, back, and groin.

The causes of psoriasis are not fully understood, but it is believed that genetic predisposition and impaired immune system play an important role in its development. Factors contributing to the onset and aggravation of psoriasis can include stress, infections, skin trauma, and certain medications.

Treatment of psoriasis is aimed at reducing symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Depending on the severity of the disease, various treatments may be used, including topical creams and ointments, phototherapy, systemic drugs, and immunomodulators.

Autoimmune dermatitis

Autoimmune dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that occurs due to a disorder of the body’s immune system. It is characterized by the appearance of redness, rash, itching and peeling of the skin.

Autoimmune dermatitis is caused by immune cells attacking the skin’s own cells. This may be due to genetic predisposition, environmental factors, or exposure to certain medications. As a result of this attack, inflammation occurs, which leads to various symptoms.

The main symptoms of autoimmune dermatitis are itching, redness of the skin, rashes and peeling. Itching is often accompanied by a painful sensation and can lead to skin damage when scratched. The rash may be in the form of blisters, spots, rashes or red papules. Peeling skin usually occurs at the site of a rash and can lead to dryness and cracking.

Treatment of autoimmune dermatitis is aimed at reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms. The doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory creams and ointments, antihistamines to relieve itching, and immunomodulators to suppress the activity of the immune system. In the presence of complications or severe symptoms, systemic treatment may be required.

Lupus erythematosus

Lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs and other organs. The main symptom of lupus is a skin rash that usually appears as red patches or a rash. Skin manifestations of lupus can be varied, including rashes on the face, neck, arms, and other parts of the body.

The causes of lupus erythematosis are not fully known, but it is believed that genetic predisposition, impaired immune system and environmental factors may play a role in its development. Lupus is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 15 and 45, although it can affect anyone regardless of gender or age.

Treatment for erythematosus lupus involves the use of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs to help reduce inflammation and control symptoms. Your doctor may also prescribe physical therapy and recommend lifestyle changes, such as avoiding sunlight and stress.

It is important to seek medical attention if symptoms of erythematosus lupus develop, as early medical attention can help prevent serious complications and improve prognosis.

Q&A:

What causes autoimmune skin diseases?

Autoimmune skin diseases can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, impaired immune system, environmental exposure, infection, and stress. In some cases, the exact causes of these diseases are unknown.

What symptoms can accompany autoimmune skin diseases?

Symptoms of autoimmune skin diseases may include rashes, redness, itching, scaling of the skin, plaque formation, ulcers and sores. Some diseases may also be accompanied by hairy patches, hair loss, changes in skin color and changes in the texture of the skin.

How are autoimmune skin diseases diagnosed?

Diagnosis of autoimmune skin disorders may include a physical examination of the skin, blood tests, skin biopsy, and allergy tests. The doctor may also ask questions about the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and family history to determine possible causes and susceptibility to disease.

What treatments are used for autoimmune skin diseases?

Treatment of autoimmune skin diseases depends on their type and severity. The doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory creams or ointments, immunomodulators, sorbents, immunoglobulin preparations, antihistamines, steroid drugs, or cytostatics. Physical therapy and laser treatments may also be used.

Can autoimmune skin diseases be completely cured?

Some autoimmune skin diseases can be completely cured or controlled, but not all diseases have a complete cure.